I would like to take this opportunity (when none of you have read this column for four months) to thank the Affair online community for many an apercu and laugh. Having just watched the entire season in a short time followed by reading this entire blog over the course of two days--did not dare to read any comments until I'd seen the whole thing--I greatly enjoyed the opportunity to discuss the show with fellow travelers, especially since literally none of my friends have ever watched it. As a non-Facebook follower, I find the experience unique and can sort of see the point in FB, although I intend to ignore and eschew it for the rest of my life. Some comments made me realize that I had fallen asleep and missed significant moments, motivating me to go back and re-watch the episode or parts thereof. (Had not yet returned the DVD to the library.) Thank you, too, to The Times for keeping the comment section open, as is not the case in news articles, enabling me to insert my two cents here and there despite my having come to the party very late. And Mr. Hale, nice job with the summaries and your opinions sans snark. Most amusing over a wet Memorial Day weekend and without leaving home. A final bow to readers who glokked the self-induced neck stabbling rather early. I guess I hadn't realized just how psychotic Noah had become.
3
P.S. I think I should have said "grokked." Haven't read A Clockwork Orange since high school.
Over here in Hove, England, I watched the ten episodes in four days, which says something. Of course it is preposterous - perhaps all plots are (Hamlet, anybody?) -, but it is done with style and intelligence. (One shudders to think of the gruelling pace at which it is filmed.) There was a time when the fractured narrative of Aldous Huxley's Eyeless in Gaza became derided but it has now become a template for much television screenwriting.
Not sure where they can take this series but it's been a great ride until recently.
1
Props to the professionalism of the reviewer, who does his job with punctilious correctness, while not disguising his bemused exasperation with this slow, accelerating train into the abyss.
7
So glad this season is over. I don't know why I keep watching . I guess it's for the occasional sweet moments, like Noah helping Whitney in the finale, or Alison and Cole trying to do the right thing although they want to be together. I basically can't stand Noah and fail to understand what any of these women see in him. I used to like Helen but she's become unpleasant. I used to dislike Alison but now I feel for her.
2
Last episode was totally disjointed-- the trek to Paris and the rebirth of Noah. zzzz , put this show to sleep, you had two good seasons, yer done!
1
Am I the only one who thought that the finale episode is a teaser for Season 4? As I watched it, I assumed that at least part of Season 4 will be the story of how Noah went from delusional crying on his kitchen floor to Juliette's bed in Paris.
To the dullest show on TV!
2
Mrs Treem, put us out of our misery: Noah suffered self injury and addiction for more than a year. What therapy catapulted him to urbane normality? Helen discovers her entire life with Noah is a lie. Why did he fake a desire to reconcile in season 2? How did he survive 25 years in a loveless marriage, without straying? Why did he keep Alison's presence at the roadside from Helen, and yet lay all his frustration at her door? Where does Noah's assault on Helen fall on your continuum of sex/violence? Does pussy grabbing have a place there too? Helen has been degraded and humiliated for 3 seasons. Is she your least favourite character, and is Vic's dry detachment really the best she can do? Are unhealed wounds a healthy basis for love, do you really see them as profound? Is Cole's integrity a set up for infidelity in season 4, and Luisa a prop for that to play out? Why did her paternity reveal, and roadside push perversely reignite Noah's love for Alison? They seemed unhappy till then. Was their divorce finalised? What triggered his breakdown? Is infidelity inevitable? Can Whitney better Alison and Helen's record of 3 men in as many weeks, and why did Furkat defend her against Noah only to assault her days later? Why was Stacey's drawing the work of a 6 year old? What happened to Noah's movie deal? Did he sell his house to finance Paris? Was the Athina/Ina storyline a coincidence too far? Are Helen's parents your version of a happy marriage? Did Noah use Juliette as well?...
11
This series does remind me of an addiction. The first season was interesting and satisfying, then steadily diminishing returns, leaving a sense of disappointment. The acting is great but the third season limped from one nonsensical plot device to another. They all seem like cartoon characters at this point. Next season? All of them looking even older … and their stories even more tired?
8
so excited when this was filming out here where we live.so disappointed to see this show descend into stupidity and confusion.
1
Kudos to the actress playing Juliette. Brilliant.
3
The last time we saw Noah it turned out he had mysteriously been psychotic for many years. Now he's hunky dory and with his lover. In terms of their relationship it seems not much time has passed but how could that possibly be true? I like the view of Juliette's of a woman in love who sees the wonderful Noah who has been writing all day and is crazy about her and thoughtful and tries to order coffee in the French he doesn't speak. This Noah is delightful. And he shows up at her apartment to console her. Then in Noah's version he's shut out of the French conversation, wandering around not doing much, trying to help his bratty daughter, and in the end willing to let his lover go to take his bratty daughter back home.
2
yes, and how does she suddenly regain some trust in him after the jaccuzy scene
1
In response to TG: I've never assumed that what we're seeing is what that character actually sees or remembers. That would be reductionist and, as you point out, often wouldn't make any literal sense. I think that, to the extent we can assume that Treem & Co. actually have a handle on what they're doing (a really big assumption that, if untrue, makes a hash of much of our commentary), we're seeing the loosely-based-on-life fictions that the characters create to make sense of things and to shield themselves -- their retrospective fantasies. Noah isn't thinking, that's what they were saying -- Noah's imagining that that's how a group of Frenchwomen would respond to him.
3
Mike, this is an interesting idea – that what the Frenchwoman are saying is what Noah THINKS they might be saying. It is unlikely that Juliette’s friends would say this to her, but it could represent what they are thinking; ie, “You left your sick husband, ran off to the US, brought your lover back and now you are kissing him on the very street in front of your house! He must be … quite something!” and Juliette, ever the aggressor replies, “Yep!”
1
sure !
the serie is all about the question of interpretation of reality.
that's the sense of the interior dialogue Noah had with imaginary Gunther about the death of the mother : compassion or crime depending on point of view.
In the encounter between the couple and french Juliette's colleague Noah is letting his narcissistic fantasies run on french womens clichés : commenting their lovers attributes in public and wearing porte-jarretelles ;-)
But anyway i'm ok : it's done in a deceipting way
the serie is all about the question of interpretation of reality.
that's the sense of the interior dialogue Noah had with imaginary Gunther about the death of the mother : compassion or crime depending on point of view.
In the encounter between the couple and french Juliette's colleague Noah is letting his narcissistic fantasies run on french womens clichés : commenting their lovers attributes in public and wearing porte-jarretelles ;-)
But anyway i'm ok : it's done in a deceipting way
I don't buy this. Not sure why my earlier response was not posted. But I'll try this:
Noah was thinking, as ANYONE would, that these French women are monumentally rude in speaking French when they are fluent in English. These other interpretations are most likely projections onto Noah based on ridiculous notions of how men think. Beyond that, an ambiguous timeline re the retrospective "fantasies" of these characters makes absolutely anything possible for the writers, so no rigor is required in storytelling. Eg, according to this view, Noah could be looking back on this encounter years later, even perhaps as a senile man on his deathbed. Is this advancing a story re infidelity and marriage?
Noah was thinking, as ANYONE would, that these French women are monumentally rude in speaking French when they are fluent in English. These other interpretations are most likely projections onto Noah based on ridiculous notions of how men think. Beyond that, an ambiguous timeline re the retrospective "fantasies" of these characters makes absolutely anything possible for the writers, so no rigor is required in storytelling. Eg, according to this view, Noah could be looking back on this encounter years later, even perhaps as a senile man on his deathbed. Is this advancing a story re infidelity and marriage?
This season may have been a bit absurd at times but I love this show. This show ironically made me question my own life and stagnant relationship. So I had an affair and now am married to that woman!
To the writer: Noah looking back at the Peter Pan book is him reminiscing about in season 1 when Allison told him her favorite book was Peter Pan. Writers didn't intend to show Noah's childishness with that scene it was to show he still cannot shake his feelings for Allison.
To the writer: Noah looking back at the Peter Pan book is him reminiscing about in season 1 when Allison told him her favorite book was Peter Pan. Writers didn't intend to show Noah's childishness with that scene it was to show he still cannot shake his feelings for Allison.
2
Noah's sentiments about his great great grandchildren finally achieving a happy childhood is a trite attempt to let himself of the hook. Au contraire, epigenetics suggests that the consequences of our choices go on to haunt generations to come, and in all likelihood his progeny will carry the hallmarks of his pathology and then some. I suspect that the cloying inclusion of an english copy of Peter Pan which Noah chances upon in the Paris Bookstore, is the precursor to next season's reunion of the true lovers. Despite the interminable unhappiness that their affair has wrought, the show runner still insists that this show is a love story. The excitement of Noah and Alison's early assignations soon wore thin, and once liberated from their spouses they seemed an ill matched pair, even when living it up in their apartment in Manhattan. Sophisticated and assertive City Alison in the interrogation scenes quickly morphed back to bicycle riding, Montauk Alison. Noah, famous writer and man-about-town inexplicably transformed into a psychotic wreck despite the innocuous nature of his incarceration. Knowing that he was in prison to protect her, didn't stop Alison from dropping him, in contrast to Helen's stoic loyalty. And their tryst on Block Island seemed like a manic episode meant to make self pity and regret appear profound. Season 4 is a blank slate awaiting more deceit, cruelty, delusion, sorrow and sexual intrigue. See you all here: we are suckers for punishment.
16
My wife and I enjoy playing the "find the differences" game. However, this last episode like others this season went past minor discrepancies to out right "wait, what???" How can one remember Noah coming to her apartment, only to make love in the hallway, while the other memeory is laying on the couch acting as a shoulder to cry on?
We both liked this season, although it has lost some steam. As much as I wanna know how it all ends (my guess is they're all crazy, living in their own fantasy) I just want to know how many years have passed till they recall these events. 10 months waiting starts now...
We both liked this season, although it has lost some steam. As much as I wanna know how it all ends (my guess is they're all crazy, living in their own fantasy) I just want to know how many years have passed till they recall these events. 10 months waiting starts now...
5
Hahaha, in the french dialogue from Noah's POV they speak about the size of his penis (Juliette replies "he's got one the size of a bull's"), whether he's circumsized because all Americans are (Juliette then proceeds to say she hasn't seen him "au repos", meaning not ready to go)...
A little cliché, as if french woman talked about sex this crudely and openly on the streets. But at the same time, we're looking at it from Noah's POV.
A little cliché, as if french woman talked about sex this crudely and openly on the streets. But at the same time, we're looking at it from Noah's POV.
8
The idea that this is conversation represents only Noah's point of view - his interpretation of a conversation between Frenchwomen - as expressed here and elsewhere in this thread, makes no sense to me. It is supposed to be clear that Noah has little understanding of French. So it cannot be that Noah is bragging about his "member" in his take on that interaction. This is just silly writing from the profoundly immature writers- nothing more. So much man-bashing masked as sexual psychology and creativity, IMO.
Frankly, this is just one of dozens of examples of complete failure of this writing re the dual POV. The best example is Helen's last interaction ("interaction"?) with Max, where she is profoundly clueless in ways that could not possibly represent her POV - at least at the time of the interaction.
To wider implications... Are we to take away that this is normal behavior for women? You know, like the way that our President speaks of grabbing furkats is really just normal locker room talk?
In the end, IMO the dual perspective strategy has simply served as a convenient (and necessary) device to allow the writers to let themselves off the hook re character development and storytelling. Fortunately for them, they have an audience that is too smart by half (at least), and looks for meaning, intent, logic, intelligence, insight, where there is none.
In a just world, Treem would have a great future. Writing Lifetime movies.
Frankly, this is just one of dozens of examples of complete failure of this writing re the dual POV. The best example is Helen's last interaction ("interaction"?) with Max, where she is profoundly clueless in ways that could not possibly represent her POV - at least at the time of the interaction.
To wider implications... Are we to take away that this is normal behavior for women? You know, like the way that our President speaks of grabbing furkats is really just normal locker room talk?
In the end, IMO the dual perspective strategy has simply served as a convenient (and necessary) device to allow the writers to let themselves off the hook re character development and storytelling. Fortunately for them, they have an audience that is too smart by half (at least), and looks for meaning, intent, logic, intelligence, insight, where there is none.
In a just world, Treem would have a great future. Writing Lifetime movies.
6
Season 4: is the baby Alison is currently pregnant with Noah's while Cole thinks it's his, neatly reversing season 2? Because the only reason for Alison to have had sex with both within days is... Will Juliette move to the States now that her career in France is done? And Helen, how will she take the newly stable Noah and his improved relationship with the kids? And yes! More Whitney who will have some interesting interaction with Sabine, of the sophisticated French kind as their parents are together... until everything blows up again.
1
So that's the way it ended, not with a bang but a whimper. As usual, the best thing about this show is Mike Hale's recaps and the many astute comments that follow each episode. I guess the happily ever after ending felt good after all the violence and madness that imbued this season, but I had to wonder what the writers were really trying to do when they came up with this totally unrealistic finale. Maybe they felt that this was the best way to get a commitment for Season 4.
I don't mind Juliette but I can't see giving her such an important role as Noah's savior after all that's happened thus far. Also, the subtitles were a big turnoff in the scene with her girlfriends. As far as the dying husband and now the daughter, that seemed too contrived for words. Does this mean we are going to have to deal with two angry daughters next year? (for those of us who are still around).
Equally contrived was Noah's speedy recovery from his drug addiction and psychosis, as others have pointed out here. In the real world you don't get over these things by falling in love and going to Gay Paree. Also, how did he not only kick the habit, get clean and sober AND apparently have plenty of money again?
When the driver asked Noah, "where to" my first thought was that it would be somewhere back in Manhattan because obviously he could now afford an expensive place of his own. I have to admit that Montauk didn't enter my mind but in retrospect, it could have happened.
I don't mind Juliette but I can't see giving her such an important role as Noah's savior after all that's happened thus far. Also, the subtitles were a big turnoff in the scene with her girlfriends. As far as the dying husband and now the daughter, that seemed too contrived for words. Does this mean we are going to have to deal with two angry daughters next year? (for those of us who are still around).
Equally contrived was Noah's speedy recovery from his drug addiction and psychosis, as others have pointed out here. In the real world you don't get over these things by falling in love and going to Gay Paree. Also, how did he not only kick the habit, get clean and sober AND apparently have plenty of money again?
When the driver asked Noah, "where to" my first thought was that it would be somewhere back in Manhattan because obviously he could now afford an expensive place of his own. I have to admit that Montauk didn't enter my mind but in retrospect, it could have happened.
3
Juliette is to The Affair as Megan was to Mad Men. In each case, the writers fall in love with a new character, up-end the series for her and push major characters to the sidelines so they can parade their new creation around. (And both Juliette and Megan speak French!) The problem is, viewers were deeply involved with those other characters, and the more the writers tried to distract us with their shiny new one, the more we wondered about them, waited for them to come back and got really irritated when they didn't. It's as though, in each series, the writers got tired of the show's reason for being before the viewers did. What a waste and a shame.
And no explanation for the exact reason for Noah's delusions (guilt complex? Pain-killers? Both? I'm waiting). No info about how much of Gunther's abuse was imagined and how much of it was real? I've never been subjected to such a huge "never mind!"(or FU) in my life. Creating Juliette was a bad writing choice. So was the whole plot about "who-stabbed-Noah." But making us endure all of that and then dropping the loose ends so they can ship the whole story off to Paris? That's more like dereliction of duty.
And no explanation for the exact reason for Noah's delusions (guilt complex? Pain-killers? Both? I'm waiting). No info about how much of Gunther's abuse was imagined and how much of it was real? I've never been subjected to such a huge "never mind!"(or FU) in my life. Creating Juliette was a bad writing choice. So was the whole plot about "who-stabbed-Noah." But making us endure all of that and then dropping the loose ends so they can ship the whole story off to Paris? That's more like dereliction of duty.
13
Except Megan on Mad Men was totally uninteresting. Juliette is interesting.
1
Not sure I agree that Juliette's a more interesting character, but Irene Jacob is a MUCH better actress than Jessica Pare.
2
After watching this episode, I wondered whether it was the series finale.
Noah pursues his artistic, masculine desires (out of his passion!) but ends up suffering the consequences, not only through his relationships and success, but his own mental torture - the whole fantasy jail bit of actually killing his mother and paying penance for it, destroying his family, etc. It will haunt him forever, as seen in the final scene where he knows he is no longer fully part of his family. But he is allowed grace (though a foreign, exotic woman dealing with her own personal tragedy) and it seems in his final expression that he may actually, finally be grown up.
Last week's episode ties up loose ends for both Helen and Alison - who, more than any in the show, exhibit empathy and strength. It seems they are able to move on - Helen reconciles with Vic; Alison and Cole communicate honestly, if not to her desire, but they're on the same page and maybe she can actually take that rewarding job.
All Noah can show for is that he isn't dead. And his family doesn't hate him. But he must leave alone, on Christmas Eve. That is his new life. All future Hemingways must understand that. Tilting romantic/sexual windmills has its drawbacks.
I honestly hope there isn't another season. I think the best points this show could have made have been stated quite eloquently. I was honestly touched by the finale. But I don't want to see any more episodes.
Noah pursues his artistic, masculine desires (out of his passion!) but ends up suffering the consequences, not only through his relationships and success, but his own mental torture - the whole fantasy jail bit of actually killing his mother and paying penance for it, destroying his family, etc. It will haunt him forever, as seen in the final scene where he knows he is no longer fully part of his family. But he is allowed grace (though a foreign, exotic woman dealing with her own personal tragedy) and it seems in his final expression that he may actually, finally be grown up.
Last week's episode ties up loose ends for both Helen and Alison - who, more than any in the show, exhibit empathy and strength. It seems they are able to move on - Helen reconciles with Vic; Alison and Cole communicate honestly, if not to her desire, but they're on the same page and maybe she can actually take that rewarding job.
All Noah can show for is that he isn't dead. And his family doesn't hate him. But he must leave alone, on Christmas Eve. That is his new life. All future Hemingways must understand that. Tilting romantic/sexual windmills has its drawbacks.
I honestly hope there isn't another season. I think the best points this show could have made have been stated quite eloquently. I was honestly touched by the finale. But I don't want to see any more episodes.
2
Sounds like Noah is a true existential character - a man alone.
Season 3 was a mess. And the finale was a total rip-off of the Sex and the City finale with Noah as Mr. Big and Whitney as Carrie. They need to get Levi writing Season 4.
3
It does a disservice to one of the greatest social issues in early 21st century America that Noah goes from prescription opioid addict to clean & together between episodes. No narrative on how he got clean & sober or even about the true circumstances of his mother's death. The first nine episodes do feel like a superfluous dream (and a waste of time). For all the nice wardrobes, on-location filming, and alternate points of view, my affair with this series (see what I did there?) is over.
22
This was a stand-alone episode but I liked Paris and the French dialogue. I'm still game for Season 4 but the show needs to come back to earth.
How is it that Noah is never short on funds? He leaves prison for a temporary job that he seems to abandon. But he is usually well-dressed. He can pay his bar bill, book last-minute flights, and jump into taxis.
Maybe Noah will embark a on a road trip and encounter another lost soul, John Rayburn, last seen fleeing real life in "Bloodline."
How is it that Noah is never short on funds? He leaves prison for a temporary job that he seems to abandon. But he is usually well-dressed. He can pay his bar bill, book last-minute flights, and jump into taxis.
Maybe Noah will embark a on a road trip and encounter another lost soul, John Rayburn, last seen fleeing real life in "Bloodline."
9
Such a disappointment. I looked forward all Sunday to the finale, sent the kids out of the room, poured some wine and ended up cleaning the kitchen 20 minutes in. Who cares about Etienne, even in whatever way his life resembled Noah's? Why was time wasted on this dreck? How did Noah end up with the sole frumpy woman in Paris, who resembles a woman from my mother's 1970's midwestern Garden Club in dress and hairstyle? How does "smoking hot" Helen keep an attractive young doctor in her clutches? My husband hates this show but had started to watch a little because of the Gunther storyline and Noah's psychological issues, which I found fascinating as well. What happened there? I love the characters of Noah and Alison, with all their faults, and this was a sad and shoddy way to end the season. Without Gunther, Furkat was the only moment of any interest. Do what you want with the characters, but don't insult your viewers by boring them to death.
9
Furkat is abusive to Whitney, assaulting her and cheating on her in front of her. What in the world is interesting about him?
2
When you did the dishes, did the faucet turn itself on? Did you look in the window over the sink and see alternating reflections of yourself and someone else? Did it drive you crazy and did you grab a knife and stab yourself in the neck? If so, the show was more pertinent than you are admitting.
2
Hated it. What does this show run 10 weeks? Time I will never get back. What a colossal waste of time, I thought I had the wrong channel on, I thought I was watching Truffaut for a moment.
5
After reading everyone's comments (almost all negative) and the as-usual excellent recap, I've made a decision. I loved the first season so much that I bought it on DVD two years ago, and I think I will spend next season re-watching Season 1. And if Ken Burns would do Season 1 of the Obama Administration, I could watch that too.
6
looking forward to the next season for a significant reboot. I hung in there, waiting, but every episode felt as if it would end in a bobby ewing shower dream. in its zeal to rehabilitate and humanize noah, the show took a sledgehammer to everyone else - and to sane storylines as well. the only bright spot was the bemused and caustic humor vic brought to his scenes, in particular, the furkat dinner with Helen and the cab ride afterward. i pray Helen has the good sense not to mess that relationship up again.
3
Yes! The ending of Dallas crossed my mind, also!
1
So going to Paris stymies hallucinations and delusions? Must be the wine and the croissants and a willing mistress. Well it is certainly a change from Montauk and NYC. Are we to believe that Furkat and Noah would be so civil after their last meeting? All of Noah's kids angst with him is now miraculously dissipated. A new affair awaits and where the heck is Gunther going to fit in?
5
One wonders how the writing collective arrived at this strange choice of subject matter for the finale. Did they dismiss the inevitable questions viewers would want answered, and appease their own curiosity instead. Perhaps they asked themselves who Noah would be, unconstrained by domestic demands. Maybe Ms Treem just wanted to see Dominic West in a pea suit wandering the streets of Paris. After all, the great man does see himself as on a par with Papa Hemingway, who are we to deny him his fantasy. Despite being psychotic and broke just a few short weeks ago, Noah is currently the voice of reason,and has money to burn. I was unmoved by his interaction with Whitney. I half expected him to lean his forehead on her temple (classic Noah technique) and stick his tongue in her mouth. Lest we suspect he has moved on, The Affair makes sure that the first book he lays eyes upon in the Parisian store is Alison's favorite, Peter Pan, and they even allow him to hear her voice (groan). His view through the Brownstone window echo's Alison's in Season 1. In that instance, what appeared to be a happy scene was in fact a heartbreaking vignette since Noah had just confessed to Helen. Helen, who gazes out wistfully at Noah, pummelled over 3 seasons by his deceit, lies and manipulation, it is she who lives with the fallout of his descent. No doubt, the cheerful Christmas decor, and happy family antics are anything but. This is The Affair after all.
10
often I think this show with its undulating plot should be called
four characters in search of an author.
four characters in search of an author.
10
The show lost its way this season. Too bad...
2
I agree with many others here that Mr. Hale's column is by far the best thing about this series this year. It's not just the recap, clarifications and humor, but the serious issues that are often raised in the column that make this so, at least for me. As I have watched the patently ridiculous stories written by Treem, et al, "evolve" over the last ~1.5 seasons, this has become ever more true - for me.
On some of these issues I find that I may have serious disagreement with Mr. Hale, while acknowledging the cultural zeitgeist, or perhaps the conflicting cultural expectations, that seem to drive his commentary.
As one example, I note Mr. Hale's use of the term "Neanderthal" in this column. He is defending Noah's "maturity and emotional control" in not confronting Furkat AFTER NOAH WATCHED FURKAT PUNCH HIS DAUGHTER IN THE FACE. Really? Give me Neanderthal, thanks.
If one DOES NOT actually witness an assault, then I'll agree to attend initially only to the loved one or to one of the injured parties, and patiently follow process and use empathy in seeking justice. If one DOES witness the assault, then it is a moral obligation to confront the attacker. Right? Or is all this business about how college boys should behave when witnessing a rape or assault just a stupid useless rant?
And, BTW, my wife can't be the only woman who began watching this series, and stuck with it, pretty much exclusively because she loved the McNulty character. You remember… that Neanderthal.
On some of these issues I find that I may have serious disagreement with Mr. Hale, while acknowledging the cultural zeitgeist, or perhaps the conflicting cultural expectations, that seem to drive his commentary.
As one example, I note Mr. Hale's use of the term "Neanderthal" in this column. He is defending Noah's "maturity and emotional control" in not confronting Furkat AFTER NOAH WATCHED FURKAT PUNCH HIS DAUGHTER IN THE FACE. Really? Give me Neanderthal, thanks.
If one DOES NOT actually witness an assault, then I'll agree to attend initially only to the loved one or to one of the injured parties, and patiently follow process and use empathy in seeking justice. If one DOES witness the assault, then it is a moral obligation to confront the attacker. Right? Or is all this business about how college boys should behave when witnessing a rape or assault just a stupid useless rant?
And, BTW, my wife can't be the only woman who began watching this series, and stuck with it, pretty much exclusively because she loved the McNulty character. You remember… that Neanderthal.
4
It appears now that the focus of the entire season was Noah's rehabilitation and redemption. The last few scenes -- as he repaired his relationship with his kids, waved at his ex through glass, and sat in the cab with no destination -- could have made for a series closer, not just a season finale. But in the wake of his drug addiction and delusional behavior, this was wrapped up too tidily and did little to increase my sympathy for him.
The focus on Juliette at a critical point in the show -- a character we know little and care less about -- was frustrating, riddled with cliche, and intended only to propel Noah's story.
So -- Alison has a job offer, Cole is standing by Luisa (for now), Helen has Vic, and Noah is at sea. Seems like a good stopping point to me.
The focus on Juliette at a critical point in the show -- a character we know little and care less about -- was frustrating, riddled with cliche, and intended only to propel Noah's story.
So -- Alison has a job offer, Cole is standing by Luisa (for now), Helen has Vic, and Noah is at sea. Seems like a good stopping point to me.
6
This season had all the hallmarks of a series that has run out of ideas: skip a few years to jumpstart things; "it was all a dream" plotting; move to a new and exciting location (Paris) for no explicable reason; a happy but ambiguous ending that is totally unearned (Whitney's forgiveness the prime example). The only moments of any interest in the finale were when Irene Jacob was the focus, because she's a wonderful actress, but jeez, give her something work with.
Will I be watching season 4? You bet. Hoping they can turn things around.
Will I be watching season 4? You bet. Hoping they can turn things around.
5
This was an orphan episode. Noah's neck was better, so it was clearly a while since episode 9. And the plot was completely new and had minimal linkage to the first 9 episodes
I can only conclude that the writers and show runners (or should I say show plodders) are laughing at us
The only worthwhile part was the interaction with her two friends. As someone who dated a Parisienne for almost a decade, it always amazed me that I was completely ignored and talked about, not too
I can only conclude that the writers and show runners (or should I say show plodders) are laughing at us
The only worthwhile part was the interaction with her two friends. As someone who dated a Parisienne for almost a decade, it always amazed me that I was completely ignored and talked about, not too
2
I so enjoy your recaps and I wish someone from the Times would recap and comment on The Young Pope. It is fantastic, beautiful to watch
3
I've said this before. Whenever it ventures into the unbelievable - and often cheesy - it's from the book. The second half of this episode was from the book's point of view.
what book?
3
A Noah Solloway book. Remember the episode where Alison gives birth to Joanie? I call it "The Dark and Stormy Night" episode because it had no POV and seemed like something from a Noah Solloway book. Noah's POV in this finale seemed the same way: Trite and unrealistic.
1
The book Noah wrote, Descent.
I found this series frequently offensive due to clueless content re medical and psychiatric matters. E.g.;
- One wouldn't expect an opioid addict to recover by hanging out with an academic Frenchwoman in northern Jersey. Noah should have been depicted as working overtime to satisfy a need for more and stronger opioids, stealing and engaging in risky behavior to support his habit, etc, and recovering only with professional help. Or dying. Vic's response to Noah and Helen was the only thing here that rang true. In light of a current opioid epidemic that is bringing tragedy to so many, the treatment of this subject in this season final episode is deplorable.
- The "terminal lucidity" thing is controversial, at best, and relies on the reports of caregivers. Alzheimer's dementia is generally progressive but may have intermittent periods of greater lucidity. TL may well be wishful thinking on the part of the caregiver(s). Alzheimer's will touch most of us with a long and terrible goodbye, without this TL "miracle" that has no explanation among neuroscientists or neurologists.
- Children who have been lied to about important matters that influence their entire regard for a parent are often deeply damaged and may need years of professional help. In 'The Affair', they're fine ("OK, I get it, Dad didn't kill anyone. Mom did. Can we go sledding now?").
- Former psychiatric impatients don't get invited back to do 1:1 lay counseling for suicidal patients, thank goodness.
- et. al.
- One wouldn't expect an opioid addict to recover by hanging out with an academic Frenchwoman in northern Jersey. Noah should have been depicted as working overtime to satisfy a need for more and stronger opioids, stealing and engaging in risky behavior to support his habit, etc, and recovering only with professional help. Or dying. Vic's response to Noah and Helen was the only thing here that rang true. In light of a current opioid epidemic that is bringing tragedy to so many, the treatment of this subject in this season final episode is deplorable.
- The "terminal lucidity" thing is controversial, at best, and relies on the reports of caregivers. Alzheimer's dementia is generally progressive but may have intermittent periods of greater lucidity. TL may well be wishful thinking on the part of the caregiver(s). Alzheimer's will touch most of us with a long and terrible goodbye, without this TL "miracle" that has no explanation among neuroscientists or neurologists.
- Children who have been lied to about important matters that influence their entire regard for a parent are often deeply damaged and may need years of professional help. In 'The Affair', they're fine ("OK, I get it, Dad didn't kill anyone. Mom did. Can we go sledding now?").
- Former psychiatric impatients don't get invited back to do 1:1 lay counseling for suicidal patients, thank goodness.
- et. al.
16
I thought the same, TG. The writers really had the opportunity to make important social commentary about opioid addiction and memory loss. They blew it. The question is - why are they even introducing these themes at the expense of the characters viewers want to see?
And how could they go sledding when there was no snow on the ground?
It was snowing in Paris. The way time and memory move around in this show, maybe Martin was "remembering" that.
For all the absolute ridiculousness that this show and the storyline has become, I still really enjoy the multiple perspective concept. I love seeing/predicting how everyone will dress, act, talk from the different view points. The premise of the approach keeps me watching, even as all else fails.
(I do find it astounding/unbelievable that Noah doesn't remember/think that there was boning in the hallway! That's a big disconnect, obviously :).
I definitely agree with the crowd that in many ways we are beating a dead horse/jumping sharks with the story. I wish the writers could/would stop trying for histrionics. The slow burn of watching a small group of people interpret their relationships with one another is interesting enough for me.
Oh and more thing - I personally love the song by Fiona and purposely listen to it, even though I watch via DVR.
(I do find it astounding/unbelievable that Noah doesn't remember/think that there was boning in the hallway! That's a big disconnect, obviously :).
I definitely agree with the crowd that in many ways we are beating a dead horse/jumping sharks with the story. I wish the writers could/would stop trying for histrionics. The slow burn of watching a small group of people interpret their relationships with one another is interesting enough for me.
Oh and more thing - I personally love the song by Fiona and purposely listen to it, even though I watch via DVR.
2
The different-memory-of-the-same-scene thing is often fascinating, but...do people who meet at a restaurant really remember completely different restaurants?
Why? Why did the finale consist of a Juliette segment? I couldn't care less about this ridiculous character and they dedicated half of the finale to her point of view, ugh. I have loved this show but Season 3 was stingy with the characters we want to see more of. Cole and Alison's relationship became even more complex but it was left nowhere. Watching Noah get bedded by every female in the show is simply unrealistic and I'm over it. What happened with his break from reality? How did he end up cavorting in Paris? It's like they accidentally left an entire episode out decided, what the heck, let's just go with it. I hope Season 4 returns to what made this show great.
14
Sarah Treem and the other writers have a few months now to figure out Season 4 story lines. And external factors affect this. The four main cast members are presumably under contract for a few more potential seasons, but Irene Jacob, signed as a recurring actor for Season 3, would have to be signed again for Season 4. Maybe her pop-music recording career would get in the way, or stage work. If she is available (the most likely scenario), my completely unfounded guess is that Juliette comes back to America, maybe to Livingston, after she's fired in Paris, and she brings Sabine with her.
2
The season finale of the Affair was totally boring. I hope season 4 is better, or I'm not going to watch it anymore.
2
What, exactly, is this show about any more?
2
The original conceit- showing parallel versions of the affair- was compelling. It often framed the way we rationalize, protect ourselves, distort memories in service of a livable sense of ourselves.
But this is no longer compelling. Seeing Noah as comforter/saint after Etienne's death vs hallway humper is not part of a meaningful narrative. Did it make Juliette clearer to smother him with grief kisses? Has she used him as an erotic diversion the way he has used women?
Who cares?
W
But this is no longer compelling. Seeing Noah as comforter/saint after Etienne's death vs hallway humper is not part of a meaningful narrative. Did it make Juliette clearer to smother him with grief kisses? Has she used him as an erotic diversion the way he has used women?
Who cares?
W
5
The original conceit -- conflicting points of view in the characters' memories -- was also anchored at first by a present-day narrative that involved lawyers and testimony during the ongoing investigation into Scotty's death, culminating in Noah's trial. This gave the story a basis in objective reality that this season lacked, and I think the series has suffered as a result. There's no anchor anymore -- just psychological drift.
3
i'm glad there's a season 4....i watch the the show because i like it....i dont understand why people who comment here and dont like the show keep watching it season after season.
38
Exactly! I watch the show because I like it too. If you don't like it, don't watch it, there's plenty of other stuff on. I thought last night's episode was very very good.
4
We started watching because we hoped it would make us think. We kept watching for the same reason. We'll stop watching now because it's become a show for those who love pointless distraction. I get that. It's just that there are so many other choices on tv to scratch that itch.
3
Are we all supposed to agree to its content? I have watched faithfully since season 1 the finale this year was awful. What world do you live in where everybody has to agree all the time? Can't you discuss things with people who may disagree with your point of view???
I will watch season 4 to see how the writers deal with a very large time gap from episode 9 to 10.
I will watch season 4 to see how the writers deal with a very large time gap from episode 9 to 10.
1
The conversation in unsubtitled French in Noah's story began by Juliette's friend exclaiming that she'd heard the rumors but hadn't believed it was true. They then compared Noah to George Clooney (remember Etienne's reference to George Clooney) and then after verifying that he spoke no French asked Juliette about the size of his penis. Hung like a bull according to Juliette and then she was asked if he was circumcised as she'd hear all Americans were. Juliette responded she'd never seen him not "at attention". I swear I'm not making any of this up!!
63
This show is garbage.
correct! but even at attention, um, there's a clear difference. zut alors!
2
You are absolutely right! That is what she said.
4
he was clearly about to say Montauk
21
It's hard enough to get a NYC cabbie to go to Queens from Brooklyn, let alone Montauk lol..
5
Splash, splash, kerplunk.
I'm sure the drug companies can't wait to get their hands on whatever Noah was taking that miraculously cured his severe mental illness in just one week! Thank goodness this waste of electricity is over.
I'm sure the drug companies can't wait to get their hands on whatever Noah was taking that miraculously cured his severe mental illness in just one week! Thank goodness this waste of electricity is over.
38
I get the impression it wasn't what Noah took that cured him; it was what he stopped taking. Also, who said it took a week?
Only good thing about this program now is your re-caps.
"Like so many other “Affair” characters he was clinging to a fantasy version of his life, but at least he had an excuse."
It is better, however, than watching the destruction of the United States.
"Like so many other “Affair” characters he was clinging to a fantasy version of his life, but at least he had an excuse."
It is better, however, than watching the destruction of the United States.
56
All Hale Sarah Treem! I'm cured of my affair with The Affair at last.
10
Hang this series up, please.
It has lost momentum, purpose and any semblance of psychological coherence.
We will not be interested in watching a humbled & redeemed Noah, a valiant maternal Allison, or any small twists.
Poor Helen seems to have her doctor back--and the wistful longing for the good old nuclear family has been sufficiently impled.
Yes- Noah does not know where he is going.
Ganug.
Finis.
If only Billions quit when it had 'jumped the shark!'
It has lost momentum, purpose and any semblance of psychological coherence.
We will not be interested in watching a humbled & redeemed Noah, a valiant maternal Allison, or any small twists.
Poor Helen seems to have her doctor back--and the wistful longing for the good old nuclear family has been sufficiently impled.
Yes- Noah does not know where he is going.
Ganug.
Finis.
If only Billions quit when it had 'jumped the shark!'
20
This season, The Affair was the show we loved to hate. It strayed so far from what we saw in the first season that I think we all just gave up. Now, the season ender - where do we go from here? The writers have given themselves multiple ways out of this seasons' dreck. It is as if we all lived through Bobby's dream back there in Southfork, a never-mind kind of outcome that left me, at least, thinking this ship should sink. What are we left with? Noah and Juliet, Cole and Allison, Helen and Dr. Vic. Choose your next victims.
I want to thank Mike Hale for another season of his commentary and insights. I appreciate the way he takes the time to actually read what is written here, and reply when he feels the need. The best part of watching the Affair is coming here and sharing with everyone else. See you next season...
I want to thank Mike Hale for another season of his commentary and insights. I appreciate the way he takes the time to actually read what is written here, and reply when he feels the need. The best part of watching the Affair is coming here and sharing with everyone else. See you next season...
32
Agree completely, but alas adieu. I'm out. Dreck. You nailed it G.
1
Hey, Mike. I'm glad we've reached the end of season 3, and that we've bid farewell to feral Noah, who apparently was healed of much of his prison PTSD during a few months with Juliette, who emerged here as caretaker extraordinaire.
The writers had been flirting with this idea of a female character with the strength and the capacity to endure and transform others in her sphere. Helen did not satisfy in that role, nor did Nina, and the early episodes featuring Juliette did not suggest her as the likely candidate, given her predilection for transgressive sex and her romantic leanings. But in the context of Etienne and his illness, her psychology is accurate. Caretakers like Juliette keep giving; at some point, the self-sacrifice leads to an attitude of entitlement. Sometimes the insouciance can be reckless, as it was in her case.
So Juliette has depth, filling a need that was unanswered (at least for me) up to now. But it was jarring to witness Noah as Responsible Dad, even though he's had it in for Furkat for months. Of course, that resentment was not just parental protectiveness. When Furkat calls Noah "my brother," we know he's speaking the truth, as Noah echoes later in his speech beside the Seine.
Christmas Eve in Brooklyn seemed way too normal for this show. But then, so did Noah--except for the moment when the cabbie asks him where he's going. The question really was, "Whose bed are you sleeping in tonight?" Try a hotel, Noah, room for one.
The writers had been flirting with this idea of a female character with the strength and the capacity to endure and transform others in her sphere. Helen did not satisfy in that role, nor did Nina, and the early episodes featuring Juliette did not suggest her as the likely candidate, given her predilection for transgressive sex and her romantic leanings. But in the context of Etienne and his illness, her psychology is accurate. Caretakers like Juliette keep giving; at some point, the self-sacrifice leads to an attitude of entitlement. Sometimes the insouciance can be reckless, as it was in her case.
So Juliette has depth, filling a need that was unanswered (at least for me) up to now. But it was jarring to witness Noah as Responsible Dad, even though he's had it in for Furkat for months. Of course, that resentment was not just parental protectiveness. When Furkat calls Noah "my brother," we know he's speaking the truth, as Noah echoes later in his speech beside the Seine.
Christmas Eve in Brooklyn seemed way too normal for this show. But then, so did Noah--except for the moment when the cabbie asks him where he's going. The question really was, "Whose bed are you sleeping in tonight?" Try a hotel, Noah, room for one.
12
Must everything be an analysis? Sheesh.
Can't we just enjoy it for the trashy soap that it is?
Can't we just enjoy it for the trashy soap that it is?
I didn't like most of the season. Too much thriller stuff happening that added up to nothing. But Martin's line at the end of this episode probably is driving me the most nuts. Helen's brownstone is in Brooklyn. Why in the world would Martin trek his siblings (presumably on the subway) all the way to Central Park? Makes no sense. Brooklynites would go to Prospect Park since it's right there!
39
It was not clear to me that it was "Noah's show" until this season. I thought it was an ensemble cast. Since it's not, I won't watch any longer. If I wanted to see Dominic, I'd fire up my DVDs of The Wire, not persist with this badly written soap opera. They've put all of their eggs into the most boring basket. It's difficult to know how Treem could be more self-indulgent, with France, with Juliette, with the claim that memories differ which is only used to mask the writers' inability to define and complete plots and characters. I don't know why Showtime renewed this dog.
27
It appeared that Noah was going to say Montauk. When he brought his lips together, he was trying to start Montauk
2
Last week a deranged and psychotic Noah was plunging a knife into his neck. This week -- voila! -- he's Jean Paul Sartre, offering up sage wisdom on the streets of Paris. What a recovery! In just a few weeks, his hallucinations and opiate addiction are gone. Amazing!
The first half of the show was a puzzlement. Why were we suddenly in the point of view of a minor player, when for three seasons we were only in the perspective of the four main characters? We have no context for Juliette's angst and relationships, and after her 30 minutes in the spotlight, we still don't. Does she always scream at her daughter in a moment of crisis? What has her relationship to the university, to her colleagues, to her husband been up until this moment? Who knows? And at this point, who cares?
Finally, I don't believe that any French art enthusiast would give a darn about Furkat's faux art. Perhaps the show runners believed that they and certain lucky members of the cast earned a trip to Paris after such a less than satisfying season.
The first half of the show was a puzzlement. Why were we suddenly in the point of view of a minor player, when for three seasons we were only in the perspective of the four main characters? We have no context for Juliette's angst and relationships, and after her 30 minutes in the spotlight, we still don't. Does she always scream at her daughter in a moment of crisis? What has her relationship to the university, to her colleagues, to her husband been up until this moment? Who knows? And at this point, who cares?
Finally, I don't believe that any French art enthusiast would give a darn about Furkat's faux art. Perhaps the show runners believed that they and certain lucky members of the cast earned a trip to Paris after such a less than satisfying season.
19
I also could not believe Furkat would be opening his Prague show on Christmas Eve. The writing has been careless in so many respects this season, and telling the story from Juliette's perspective, while glossing over Noah's recovery/redemption, appeared a cynical device to leave loose ends for tying up in the putative next season.
2
Yes, but it IS fortunate that both NYC and Paris are tiny lil' burgs so that it was entirely plausible that all these folks intersected so frequently.
Was that art exhibit, with its pubic poster, there to confirm the Beavis and Butthead-level "joke" of the name "Furkat"? As in "I'm heading to the women's march in my pink
Furkat hat"?
Har. har.
de har.
har.
Watch out! John Oliver, Jon Stewart, Seth McFarland, Larry David, Stephen Colbert - Funnygirl Treem's on your tail!
Was that art exhibit, with its pubic poster, there to confirm the Beavis and Butthead-level "joke" of the name "Furkat"? As in "I'm heading to the women's march in my pink
Furkat hat"?
Har. har.
de har.
har.
Watch out! John Oliver, Jon Stewart, Seth McFarland, Larry David, Stephen Colbert - Funnygirl Treem's on your tail!
1
I think Dominic West certainly earned himself a sojourn in Paris, after the exhausting performance his character required. Hilarious that the only way to make Noah appear good is to compare him to an increasingly spoofed up Furkat. I prefer Furkat's openly self serving agenda to Noah's creepy misleading ministrations. He takes narcissism to a presidential level.
4
Sadly I think I have the same feelings that I have seen expressed here recently. I may have had it with this show. Although I fault the writers and not Dominic West, I really thought the second half of last week's episode was unbelievable and a disaster. This week's was just tedious. So does Juliette cure drug addiction too? And I really would have liked to have said good-bye to Alison and Cole, who have had a far more interesting relationship lately than the miraculously healthy-minded Noah and Juliette, both now free to pursue their passions without guilt (and what is The Affair without guilt?) Cole at least has the problem of Louisa, regardless of what fealty he swears to her while Alison is still around. At least the recaps here have kept up their high quality. Maybe next season I will just read the recaps and comments.
8
Time to end it. I've watched all three seasons and while enjoying it found all the main characters totally annoying. The last scene with Noah in the cab having nowhere to go was perfect .
4
The finale was a disaster. Easily the worst episode of not only the season, but also the entire series -- and it pains me to say that, because I'm one of this show's most staunch defenders. I can appreciate a foreign-language segment of an episode, but the subtitles were terrible. Moreover, the Juliette storyline is of little interest to me, and was not at all worthy of being included in the finale. Things improved marginally during the Noah chapter, but it was too little too late.
I'll return for season 4, but after watching this mess, I'll do so only with diminished expectations.
I'll return for season 4, but after watching this mess, I'll do so only with diminished expectations.
16
Rich- I agree, the subtitles really ruined it for me too. The whole turnaround was just too unbelievable. How did we go from group psychosis to "they all lived happily ever after?"
1
When Noah leafed through the Peter Pan book, was that Allison's voice narrating the one line? Or was that in my head? Either way, I felt Allison in this scene and saw Noah shake his head as if trying to shake her out of it.
13
I agree. I totally did not get Mr. Hale's comment about Noah's child complex; in fact I disagree with that. He was hearing Allison-did she read that book at her son's grave? I don't remember, but clearly she is still in his head and he heard her voice in that scene. I think he will be heading back to Montauk as well. And the difference in point of view in this episode was so dramatic-so much more obvious than in other episodes. In Juliette's verson, Noah is crazy in love with her and can't get enough of her. In his version, he seems almost disinterested, telling his daughter that he is "fond" of Juliette and not using the L word anymore
1
It was indeed Alison's voice. I turned on the captions to be sure, and she was identified as the speaker.
2
When Noah and Alison were on Block Island in season 1, she mentions that Peter Pan is her favorite book. This is why he "heard" her voice when he read it.
I think the show missed a good bet by not giving some more focus to Whitney. Whitney and Furkat should have had at least two segments devoted to them, if for nothing more than comic relief. Furkat’s welcome to Noah (my brother!!!) certainly rattled Noah considering their last encounter. And the visuals surrounding the gallery opening (Whitney as a server in blazing red while the others are in ever-so-trendy black) obviously showed that Whitney was the next day’s trash. Yeah, I know, Whitney and then Martin coming around to Noah, especially on Christmas Eve was a little too Hallmark Channel. But it did settle down the episode. But like Noah, we are asked, where to now?
4
In the last season of “Mad Men,” a decision was made to stretch out the story line to keep the show going as long as possible. At the half-way point, there was a wonderful musical sendoff to Bert Cooper (Robert Moore). I thought that’s it, this is where the show goes out on a high point. But no, the show went on a long bender of an aimless Don Draper road trip.
I feel that way now about “The Affair.” At the end of last season, I thought Great, they brought the season to a dramatic, unexpected, if far-fetched climax. But I had a sinking feeling that they had nowhere to go. New stories involving Gunther and Juliette looked like MAYBE we were getting somewhere, but in the end, we Jumped the Gunther. This episode’s main thrust was to tie up Juliette’s story line before she was sent packing. The only character the writers were interested in, who actually had fun with, was Helen.
I feel that way now about “The Affair.” At the end of last season, I thought Great, they brought the season to a dramatic, unexpected, if far-fetched climax. But I had a sinking feeling that they had nowhere to go. New stories involving Gunther and Juliette looked like MAYBE we were getting somewhere, but in the end, we Jumped the Gunther. This episode’s main thrust was to tie up Juliette’s story line before she was sent packing. The only character the writers were interested in, who actually had fun with, was Helen.
4
Robert MORSE
5
"...we Jumped the Gunther." Best line in this show's comments!!!
5
I hope they bring the series back to Montauk for the 4th (and what I assume will be final season).
I think the episode played nicely into how people and relationships remain in your life, spanning time and geography. At the same time, it looks at the idea that we all have something deep and dark below the surface that we are dealing with, be it our work, our family relationships, and our relationship with the world around us.
This finale was big-thinking, but a bit disjointed given the narrative of the season.
Again, let's bring it full circle next season.
I think the episode played nicely into how people and relationships remain in your life, spanning time and geography. At the same time, it looks at the idea that we all have something deep and dark below the surface that we are dealing with, be it our work, our family relationships, and our relationship with the world around us.
This finale was big-thinking, but a bit disjointed given the narrative of the season.
Again, let's bring it full circle next season.
13
This would be a nice place to end the show. Noah reconciled with his children. Helen and Vic apparently starting their reconciliation. Juliette? Her story continues elsewhere, but not in the Noah universe. (BTW - Wasn't Juliette at Livingston for a semester, not a year?) Alison has her job offer; Cole has Luisa. As for the Scotty mystery - we will have to let that rest, wondering if the authorities ever do find out the truth.
The ending was a metaphor for starting a new novel. A blank page. So many possibilities. (Noah actually ended up being likeable!)
The ending was a metaphor for starting a new novel. A blank page. So many possibilities. (Noah actually ended up being likeable!)
3
Yes. It was just a semester. Definitely. Confirmed by the fact that it is now Christmas . Just one semester. Also it would not make sense that she would be away from her daughter and sick husband for an entire year.
1
It's hard to think of another series that collapsed like this. It's like the writers were looking forward to getting other jobs.
20
I am hard-pressed to envision where the writers should take the show next season. I thought we were set up for Noah reckoning with himself, and we got the sidebar Paris trip. I won't be looking forward to the next season but will watch to see where they take what has become a train wreck.
Meanwhile, the trailers for Billions have me ready to go!
Meanwhile, the trailers for Billions have me ready to go!
2
Although I have not yet seen the season finale - to even call it that seems to be an outrageous misnomer. It appears to be more of a pilot for an entirely new show.
4
So why didn't you wait until you saw it to put in your two cents?
Gee, why so snide?
I thought this was the best episode of Season 3. Paris was gorgeous! And it was a pleasure to see such a great actor, Irene Jacob, in this show which has often felt very slight. Irene Jacob elevated this episode. The story of her marriage to Etienne & her affair with Noah was refreshing - as the endless Noah/Allison/Cole/Helen merry-go-round has become convoluted & boring, at last something new and interesting has happened. Etienne's death and Juliettes struggle with the reality of her marriage in light of his death made a nice bookend to Noah's trauma this season about the death of his mother & Allison's struggle with the loss of the son.
I didn't believe I could enjoy this show again but kudos all around for this episode. I doubt any future episodes will feature Irene Jacob or be set in Paris, so maybe this was a lovely one-off. But very very nice finale.
I thought this was the best episode of Season 3. Paris was gorgeous! And it was a pleasure to see such a great actor, Irene Jacob, in this show which has often felt very slight. Irene Jacob elevated this episode. The story of her marriage to Etienne & her affair with Noah was refreshing - as the endless Noah/Allison/Cole/Helen merry-go-round has become convoluted & boring, at last something new and interesting has happened. Etienne's death and Juliettes struggle with the reality of her marriage in light of his death made a nice bookend to Noah's trauma this season about the death of his mother & Allison's struggle with the loss of the son.
I didn't believe I could enjoy this show again but kudos all around for this episode. I doubt any future episodes will feature Irene Jacob or be set in Paris, so maybe this was a lovely one-off. But very very nice finale.
19
yes- they invented a totally new story....this is called 'jumping the shark' when they have actually run out of any real unfolding of The Affair. They bailed. Shall we track Whitney, Nick or Helen's ex-lover's new marriage ?
Spare me.
Spare me.
3
I couldn't believe the vulgarity of the French dialogue between Juliette and her two colleagues as they meet on the street and am glad it wasn't translated. If I did here, it would be unprintable. Is this how French women are supposed to talk about a woman's boyfriend sexual attributes? Please! It was embarrassing and ridiculous.
13
The idea was to humiliate Juliette, of whom they were clearly jealous.
Juliette is the most uninteresting character yet. Why waste a finale on her no matter how miraculously she allegedly cured Noah of his psychosis? Wait, did Helen's parents ever get out of the panic room ? loved Helen's half of the semi/finale!
6
Yawn!!!
5
The "in the airplane" scene was ridiculous. Looked like a set on SNL, with the fake winds blowing by the window.
18
Yes.